Everyone has heard the classic phrase ‘it’s not what you know, it’s who you know’. In the world of marketing, this is perhaps even more true than in other industries. This means that if you’re working in the field, it’s important to develop a strong network of contacts to whom you can turn for advice and opportunities. Not sure how to go about it? Here are six top tips.
1. Enroll in a marketing degree
Remember how easy it was to meet people in school? You can get the same opportunity by going to college to study for a marketing degree. If you don’t have the option to attend classes on campus, doing a bachelor of marketing online is also a great way to make connections in a virtual environment. You’ll be studying with your cohort for many months or years, giving you plenty of time to build valuable relationships and genuine friendships.
2. Find a mentor
Regarding connections, quality is just as important as quantity – if not more so. Therefore, to cultivate a truly beneficial relationship, you might consider trying to find a mentor. This experienced professional can impart their wisdom to you and offer personal advice and guidance. You’ll need to be proactive in finding a mentor, so be brave and reach out to people who currently hold your dream job in marketing. Remember to allow the relationship to develop organically rather than trying to force it.
3. Improve your communication skills
Many people find networking a challenge, but working on your communication skills can make it much easier (and help you be a better marketer, too!). Brush up on good conversation topics to break the ice, and practice your active listening skills. Even factors such as eye contact and body language are important and have a big impact on how others perceive you. Online communication is also key these days, so don’t neglect your writing skills.
4. Attend industry events
Even with the best communication skills, you’ll have a hard time networking if you stay at home! Make it a goal to attend as many relevant marketing events as possible, and be sure to start conversations with several people at each one. Don’t worry if this idea makes you feel nervous, as your confidence will grow with time and experience. Not every chat will lead to a new contact, and that’s ok – it’s all about finding the right connections.
5. Get business cards printed
Often there isn’t time for a long chat when you meet someone new, so having business cards printed can be a great way to exchange contact information with people quickly. Make sure they look professional, and always keep a few on you, as you never know when you might make an unexpected connection!
6. Be selfless
Many people go into networking thinking only of how it can benefit them, but this is a mistake. To truly make valuable connections, you ought to be thinking about how you can help the people that you meet too. The best professional relationships are reciprocal, so be sure you’re always bringing something to the table.
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